ParkLands

Description

This site along the Mackinaw River was established to protect the habitat of the heart-leaved plantain which inhabits the gravel beds of the tributaries of the river. This plant once grew in 20 counties, but its populations have declined precipitously, and it is now known from only four counties. The populations in the stream beds at ParkLands are located within forests. These forests are beneficial to the plantain because they reduce erosion and slow the runoff of water during rains. Although these forests are not old growth, they do contain a high diversity of woody and herbaceous plant species. The Mackinaw River, at this location, is very scenic and its waters are clear as they flow over sand and gravel.